In January, the ASC asked songwriters and composers to share their talent by submitting one or more songs or compositions about Birmingham. All genres and instruments were eligible, but the song must be original. In response, 86 video submissions were made. Now 12 finalists have been selected by the esteemed panel of judges. The finalists will perform their own song written about Birmingham at LOCAL. Three performers, selected by a panel of judges, will each receive studio time at UAB to record their winning songs. The top 12 finalists are:

This free community event is sponsored by the Alys Stephens Center’s Junior Board. Through sponsorships, LOCAL will raise funds to help support ArtPlay, the ASC’s education and outreach initiative. ArtPlay reaches more than 12,000 individuals in the Birmingham community each year through its art and education programs that are either low-cost or free.

In addition to the free festival, the ASC will offer for sale VIP tickets that will include food and beverages from local Birmingham vendors. VIP tickets are $25 in advance or $30 on the day of the event. The VIP wristband can be purchased online at www.AlysStephens.org.

Naloxone kits have prevented more than 10,000 deaths from opioid overdose since local distribution programs began in 1996. Now, as deaths from opioid overdose reach an all-time high in the United States, a crowdfunded project from UAB researchers aims to put naloxone in the hands of those at highest risk.

Literacy has a new definition: reading and writing plus math, technology and health care, among other subjects. Discover how the Maryann Manning Family Literacy Center in UAB’s School of Education takes a comprehensive approach to help Alabama children and families succeed at work, at home and in the community.

The school aims to continue offering students cutting-edge opportunities by expanding educational programming, enhancing diversity, growing research dollars and broadening its capacity to help Alabama’s underserved.